Amtrak getting ready to roll out sleeker rail cars made by Elmira plant

ELMIRA, N.Y. — An Elmira plant is putting the finishing touches on new long-distance rail cars for Amtrak.

Amtrak.com

The cars are being built at CAF USA's manufacturing plant in Elmira, and production of the first units is nearing completion. They're expected to begin field testing this winter.

The $298.1 million order for the single-level long distance passenger rail cars includes 25 sleepers, 25 diners, 25 baggage-dormitory units, and 55 baggage cars. More than 120 suppliers in 25 states and 93 cities are providing parts for the new rail cars.

The company hired more than 400 workers to perform the manufacturing and final assembly work.

The new cars likely will operate on eastern routes and allow cars built in the 1940s and 1950s to be retired. They will feature state-of-the-art air conditioning and lighting, as well as other modern amenities, company officials say.